Researcher
(Based in Bangladesh Country Office- Dhaka)

Join Us at Plan International Bangladesh: Make a Lasting Impact!

Plan International is an independent development and humanitarian organisation that advances children’s rights and equality for girls. We believe in the power and potential of every child. But this is often suppressed by poverty, violence, exclusion and discrimination. And its girls who are most affected and mostly during crisis. Working together with children, young people, our supporters and partners, we strive for a just world, tackling the root causes of the challenges facing girls and all vulnerable children. For over 85 years, we have rallied other determined optimists to transform the lives of all children in more than 80 countries.

Over the 30 years journey in Bangladesh, we envision a 2030 where children and youth, particularly girls and young women, are recognized as leaders of change in gender norms and can make decisions about their lives.

Since 24 September 2017, Plan International has been responding to the Rohingya refugee influx in Cox’s Bazar with special focus on protecting girls and boys from violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation; improving hygiene and sanitation; and restoring access to safe, quality, and inclusive education for refugee children and adolescents. Guided by our core values, we remain unwavering in our commitment to advancing children’s rights and equality for girls so that children, especially girls, and their communities can learn, lead, decide, and thrive. 

For the past three decades, our work in Bangladesh has made a significant impact, and we are now looking for a Researcher.

The Role

The Researcher will be instrumental in building the project’s evidence base, with a particular emphasis on social norms, gender equity, and social inclusion. This position involves designing and conducting research studies that generate practical insights to inform project strategies, support adaptive implementation, and assess overall impact.

The position holder will be responsible for leading gender-responsive research, conducting social behaviour change (SBC) analysis, and overseeing impact evaluations across diverse and complex settings. The role requires extensive field experience and proven expertise in generating evidence to inform inclusive, transformative programes. A primary area of focus will be identifying the factors—both barriers and enablers—that influence the lives of marginalized youth, especially young women, and producing robust data to guide inclusive and effective interventions tailored to local contexts.

What we’re looking for

  • Educational and Academic Qualifications: Post-graduate degree in Sociology, Social Work, Anthropology, Development Studies, or a related field; A PhD degree will be considered as an additional qualification.
  • Extensive Research Experience: Minimum 10 years of specific research experience in social development, specifically in gender and social norms. Proven ability to conduct gender and youth analyses, including addressing issues such as gender-based violence, PSHEA. Experienced in designing and leading studies on gender and social norms change that impact female labor force participation.
  • Data Analysis and Reporting Skills: Proficient in analyzing both qualitative and quantitative data, producing high-quality reports, and translating findings into clear, actionable insights.
  • Communication and Publications: Fluent in English (spoken and written), with a strong publication record and the ability to communicate complex research findings to non-technical audiences through briefs, presentations, and storytelling.
  • Ethical and Inclusive Research Practice: Knowledgeable about ethical standards in research involving vulnerable populations and experienced in integrating research findings into adaptive program design and implementation.
  • ICT and Research Tools Proficiency: Skilled in standard office software and familiar with project management and research tools for data analysis, reporting, and effective resource use.

Why Join Us?

Joining Plan International means engaging in impactful work that transforms lives and promotes equality. As part of our global network, you will have opportunities for international collaboration and continuous professional development. We value diversity and inclusivity, offering a supportive environment where every team member is empowered to thrive. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we know that to achieve lasting impact, we must invest in those who make it possible. We are guided by a values-based leadership framework rooted in feminist leadership principles.

If you are a committed and values-driven professional with a passion for making a difference, we invite you to join our journey and help shape a better future for children in Bangladesh.

How to apply:

To find out more details & apply instruction visit: Researcher

Last date to apply online is 16 August 2025.

The selected candidate will receive an initial one-year contract for this position, with a high possibility of extension based on performance and availability of funds. Only Bangladeshi citizens are eligible to apply.

This position is being advertised as part of a proposal submission process and is open to all interested applicants, contingent upon the project being awarded by the donor. Selected profiles will be included in the proposal.

The incumbent will be entitled to monthly CTC along with other benefits, i.e., hospitalization benefit for spouse and children, contributory provident fund, gratuity, festival bonus, leave, group insurance, yearly medical check-up for employees, mobile allowance, parental leave and day care facilities.

Plan follows an equal opportunity policy and actively encourages diversity, welcoming applications from all, especially women and people living with disability, and gender diverse communities. We promote a competitive salary, a female-friendly workplace, outstanding co-workers (who are respectful, professional, unbiased, and easy to work with) and equal opportunity, which means equal access to career progression, leadership roles or upskilling programs.

A range of pre-employment checks and anti-terrorism screening will be undertaken in conformity with Plan International's Global Safeguarding Policy and Preventing Sexual Harassment and Exploitation and Abuse (PSHEA) policy. Plan International also participates in the Inter-Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme. In line with this scheme we will request information from applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment.

By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms their understanding of the recruitment procedures. Plan International is committed to an inclusive recruitment process and will provide appropriate support for applicants with disabilities upon request. If your disability is likely to affect you adversely within the application process itself, please let us know (within the vacancy timeframe) by emailing Career.Bangladesh@plan-international.org

Please note that Plan International will never ask for any fees through mobile banking or send unsolicited emails requesting payment from candidates.

Only short-listed candidates shall be contacted. Any prior communication or persuasion may lead to the disqualification of the candidacy.

Visit our website to learn more about what we do at Plan International. To be connected with Plan International Bangladesh, please join us on Facebook and YouTube